Korean Job Discussion Forums

[who-rider9]

Im getting ready to head to Thailand for about 10 days and was wondering what is the easiest/best way to take money with me. Should I buy a T/C from my bank (shinhan bank) or just carry loads of cash? Carry loads of cash doesnt sound like the smartest idea but I've heard that some have had problems trying to cash their T/C's when they get there. Is there a specific T/C that I should get (Visa or American Express) that will be very easy to cash over there? And where would be the best place to exchange money (BKK airport or Incheon or somewhere else)? Thanks ya'll for all the help. Cheers

[ttompatz]

[seoul101]

In the past I've used my UK debit/credit cards to withdraw money.. but coming from Korea using my K-money I've also been advised to take USD and change it into THB once there.

Where's a good place to change money?

[BTSskytrain]

Take American Express T - checks with you. You'll have absolutely no problem cashing them with your passport. Best rates are usually at the street booths and sometimes banks. Worst rates are at the airport and hotels. As previously advised, use the safety deposit box at the hotel service counter (not the safe in your room) to store your money.

No need to exchange money prior to arriving in Thailand. Wait until you get there as the offshore rate is currently running 2-3 baht less than the inland rate.
Upon your arrival at the BKK airport, exchange only enough money to get you to a street exchange booth where you will get a slightly better rate.

by the way, if you're heading to Patts send me a PM and i can steer you in the right direction.

[laura-and-ryan]

are these booths open over weekends?

[crusher_of_heads]

[Khunopie]

If you take TCs only get AmEx. Others can be difficult to cash. And take US 100 denominations as the banks charge a fee (30 baht?) for each TC changed.

[livinseoul]

Do not use the safe deposit box in the hotels. It is a common scam in Thailand for an employee of the hotel to open your box when you are out steal the contents and disappear upcountry.

[mrsquirrel]

Just take cash.

I don't get this asking how to carry money. What did you do before you came to Korea how did you make a decision to have money when you first arrived here? Did you bring cash or credit cards or your piggy bank?

[ceesgetdegrees]

I don't think it's that "common". I've been around a few thai/falang message boards and have never heard of it. Personally i hate leaving money/valuables at receprtion as i feel stupid having to ask them for the key each time i want cash or whatever.

[livinseoul]

Believe me it's very common. Oh and I am sorry I am not talking about the behind the reception safe deposit boxes, although valueables do get stolen there also. I am talking about the in room safes where you set/enter a pin.
Here it is very common.

[phatrick]

take cash and open a Thai bank account when you get there... you will even get a debit card with a visa logo that works anywhere in the world